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About the ZQ

Located along the banks of the great Chobe River, the Zambezi Queen, affectionately known as the ZQ, offers world-class sophistication in one of the most remote locations on earth. With only 14 suites, the ZQ is as unique and adventurous as it is comfortable and elegant. In fact, it is unsurpassed in all aspects and the last word in Luxury African River Safaris.

Each suite features air-conditioning and a private balcony, offering unobstructed views of the river and vistas. Enjoy remarkable game viewing from the comfort of your bedside.

Whether dining on the upper deck restaurant while watching the animals gather at dusk, doing a water-based river safari from one of our private boats, or attempting to land your first tiger fish, our professional team will be on hand to meet your every need.

Unlike a land-based lodge, the ZQ allows for an entire stretch of river to be explored from a vantage point making for incredible game viewing. And rightly so, as the banks of the Chobe National Park boast one of the densest populations of elephant on the African continent – currently estimated at approximately 120 000. The Park is also home to a large number of buffalo, leopard, lion along with a variety of antelope and abundant birdlife.

Built in the early 1990s, the Zambezi Queen was created to carry its guests on an extended journey from Katima Mulilo down the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers and back. The sheer size of the vessel made navigating difficult and shortly after that, the Zambezi Queen ended up moored along the river bank where it acted as a floating hotel to visitors to the Caprivi Region of Namibia.

Around 2008, two entrepreneurs saw the potential of restoring the boat to its former glory. A period of intensive re-designing and planning ensued. A third deck was added, giving the ZQ its imposing iconic look now famed worldwide.

Celebrated South African fashion designer Jenni Button lent a hand in the classic yet contemporary interior with understated muted tones. Cleverly, this not only highlights the feeling of space but allows the eye to be drawn to the constant movement of the wildlife on the banks of the river.

Once the champagne bottle had smashed against the hull of the elegant new ZQ, it took to the waters again – only this time languidly making its way along the banks of the Chobe National Park, famed for its prolific wildlife.